The name Jaisalmer evokes a
vivid picture of sheer magic and brilliance of the desert. The
exotic, remote and beautiful, Jaisalmer is a bit of a paradox. So far west
that it is in the heart of the desert, one would expect barren
near-desolation. Yet this frontier town is today one of Rajasthan's
best-loved tourist destinations. Local colour and warmth prevail over the
inhospitable and forbidding terrain, imbuing the medieval town with a
special magic.
Rawal Jaisal, a descendent of the Yadav Clan and a
Bhati Rajput, laid the foundation of this city in 1156 AD. Trikuta was the
hill chosen and Jaisal abandoned his old fort at Lodurva and established his
new capital here.
The
Bhati Rajputs of Jaisalmer were feudal chiefs who lived on the forced levy
on the caravans that crossed their territory en-route Delhi. These
caravans, laden with precious cargos of spices and silk brought great wealth
to this town. Because of its remote location, Jaisalmer for years remained
untouched by outside influences and during the British Raj, the rulers of
Jaisalmer were the last to sign the instrument of agreement with the
British.
In medieval times, its prosperity was due to its location
on the main trade route linking India to Egypt, Arabia, Persia, Africa and
the West. The glory of Jaisalmer faded when sea trade replaced the old land
routes. But there is still an 'Arabian Nights' quality about the town. The
narrow streets in the walled city preserve a traditional way of life : the
craftsmen still work at the ancient crafts of weaving and stone carving, the
making of silver jewellery and embroidery. And the stately, nonchalant camel
is everywhere.
Just a walk through Jaisalmer, savouring the
medieval glory of old Rajasthan, is a marvellously rewarding travel
experience.
Desert Festival, celebrated in January/ February, is a
must on any itinerary. The desert seems to bloom in a thousand
colours. There are camel races and folk dances. Craft bazaar and traditional
balled singing. A sound and light spectacle on the sand-dunes of Sam on the
full moon night. And all the colour and excitement of the best in Rajasthan.
The
perfect time to visit the golden city is during the Desert Festival every
year when the city reverberates to the sound of melodious tunes and rhythms.
Folk dances, exciting competitions and contest especially the turban-tying
contest, Mr.Desert contest and camel races enlighten the festivities.
Jaisalmer is a marvel of beautiful culture and harsh climatic conditions,
together amounting to a memorable experience. This is a city to be visited.
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Major Attractions of Jaisalmer |
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Jaisalmer Fort : Renew yourself amid the past galore, as
you visit the commanding Jaisalmer Fort. The fort stands guard over the
desertscape from its 250 feet high perch on the hill with its wall following
the contours of the hills.
The steep cobblestone pathways leading
to the royal palace pass through four gates. The sharp twists and turns make
the fort invincible. The fort has five interconnected palaces with (jaali)
screens and dainty (jharokhas) all showpieces of Jaisalmer artisans
talent.
Patwon-ki-Haveli : It is the grandest
mansion in Jaisalmer, not to be missed at all. This five haveli wonder has
its ceiling supported by exquisitely carved pillars and its delicately
chiselled balconies surely leave you mesmerised.
Desert
National Park : Come, see the rolling landscape of the Sam sand dunes.
Head on for a wild experience, as you may encounter the Indian Gazelle,
Chinkara Eagle and exotic avian variety in this 3000 sq. km. vast protected
Biosphere Reserve. The park lies to the south-west of Jaisalmer.
Jain Temples : Within the citadel are the splendorous
Jain temples, dedicated to Rishabdevji, Sambhavnathji and Parshvanathji. The
Parshvanathji Temple is the oldest and the most beautiful of the Jain
temples. Human and animal figures are carved on the walls of its sanctum and
the rising dome or shikhar is crowned by an amalak and a
waterpot containing a lotus flower.
Desert
Festival : During the three day long festival, Jaisalmer reverberates
with music, colour and joy, displaying its glorious past and rich culture.
Under the full moon, the vigorous folk dancers sway to the enchanting music.
The turban tying contest and Mr. Desert contest add to the enthusiasm. A
trip to Sam sand dunes, where one can view folk musicians performing and
even enjoy a camel safari, marks the finale of this colourful extravaganza.
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Shopping in Jaipur |
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Jaisalmer is famous for mirror work, embroidered articles,
woollen pattu and other items made of good quality, locally produced wood,
wooden boxes, trinklets, silver jewellery and curios. The main shopping
areas are Sadar Bazaar and Sonaron Ka Bas, Manak Chowk, Pansari Bazaar and
also Rajasthali - Government shop for handicrafts and Khadi Gramodyog.
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How to Get there |
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Rail : Jaisalmer is 290-km from Jodhpur
via Pokhran, Dechu and Balesar or 330-km from Bikaner via Pokhran and
Phalodi. It is well connected by train with Jodhpur and other major cities
of the country by a meter gauge line.
Road : A
good network of roads joins Jaisalmer with Jodhpur and many other
destinations in and around Rajasthan.